US20140039946A1 - Reservation system and apparatus for reserving occupancy of a communal item and method of use - Google Patents

Abstract

A reservation system, apparatus, and method allows a user to reserve occupancy of a communal item. To do so, a reservation device which is connectable to the communal item includes an available state in which the communal item is available for use, and a reserved state in which the communal item is reserved. The reservation device includes a motion sensor which senses when the communal item is occupied. If the user vacates the communal item for a time interval, a timer starts counting off a time period. If the user does not reoccupy the communal item before the time period elapses, the reservation device changes from the reserved state to the available state. The reservation device also allows the user to make service requests.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
• This application is a Continuation-In-Part of and claims the filing benefit under 35 U.S.C. §120 of application Ser. No. 13/066,409, filed Apr. 14, 2011, and also claims the filing benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/344,068, filed May 17, 2010, both of which previously filed applications are hereby incorporated by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
• The present invention pertains generally to communal items, and more particularly to a reservation system for reserving occupancy of a communal item.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
• In certain venues communal items are made available for the use of multiple users. For example lounge chairs are typically provided for the guests of cruise ships and hotel swimming pool areas. The lounge chairs are occupied on a first-come-first-serve basis, and remain occupied until the current user elects to leave the area. If however there are an insufficient number of lounge chairs to accommodate all guests, then some guests must wait for a lounge chair to become available. The wait can be frustrating since there is usually no provision for sharing the communal item by limiting the period of use. Also, confusion can arise as to whether the communal item is in fact in use. That is, if the communal item is physically unoccupied but some personal articles are disposed in the area, it can be unclear to a desirous user if the communal item is now available.
• In view of the above, it would be useful to provide a means by which the time of occupancy of a communal item can be regulated, and further which provides a positive indication as to the availability of the communal item.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
• The present invention is directed to a reservation system, apparatus, and method for reserving occupancy of a communal item. The reservation system allows both operational personnel and guests to easily identify lounge chairs or other communal items which are available vs. reserved resulting in a more equitable and efficient use of facility resources. The system and apparatus also enable facility personnel to identify and locate guests who desire service(s) such as food and beverage. It also allows the facility to advertise current promotions to guests while they are lounging in the communal item. Some of the features of the system are:
• • The system includes a reservation device which is easily connected to (and removable from) the communal item.
  • The reservation device has user friendly controls and displays.
  • The reservation device wirelessly communicates with a computer-controlled base station via repeaters.
  • The reservation device includes a timing mechanism which indicates the amount of time a communal has been unoccupied.
  • The reservation device includes a service request feature so that guests can remotely request service.
  • The reservation system allows the facility to send promotional advertisements or other messages to guests while they are occupying the communal item.
  • The base station monitors communal item utilization and service requests.
  • The system employs a mesh wireless network which permits a specific communal item to be approximately located.
• Some of the advantages of the reservation system are;
• • Improves guest relations since all guests have equal opportunity to utilize a communal item by eliminating “hogging”.
  • Frees up additional square feet of “real estate” for other purposes because fewer communal items are required
  • Saves the facility money on new or additional communal items because the existing items are used more efficiently
  • Increases revenue from beverages and food sales because of the ability to communicate the need for “service”
  • Enables a more efficient use of operational personnel by reducing the need to manually monitor communal items.
  • Provides the ability to track the utilization of communal items and service requests including but not limited to the time required for fulfillment of service requests
• In accordance with an embodiment, a reservation system for reserving occupancy of a communal item includes a communal item placement area. A communal item is disposed in the communal item placement area. The reservation system further includes a reservation device which is connectable to the communal item. The reservation device includes an available state in which the communal item is available for use, a reserved state in which the communal item is reserved by a user, a timer which runs for a period of time, and a timer activator which starts the timer.
• In accordance with another embodiment, the reservation system includes a base station. The reservation device is capable of wirelessly communicating with the base station.
• In accordance with another embodiment, the communal item placement area is divided into a plurality of zones, and the communal item resides in one of the plurality of zones. In accordance with another embodiment, each of the plurality of zones has a repeater.
• Communication between the reservation device and the base station is via the repeater which is located in the same zone as the communal item.
• In accordance with another embodiment, a plurality of communal items are disposed in the communal item placement area. The reservation system includes a mesh wireless network wherein each of the repeaters communicates with (1) the base station, (2) other the repeaters, and (3) multiple reservation devices.
• In accordance with another embodiment, the reservation device has a communal item identifier, and the reservation device is capable of sending the base station a communal item reserved signal which includes the communal item identifier.
• In accordance with another embodiment, the communal item placement area is divided into a plurality of zones, and the communal item resides in one of the plurality of zones. Each of the plurality of zones has a repeater, each repeater having a zone identifier. Communication between the reservation device and the base station is via the repeater which is located in the same zone as the communal item. The repeater receives the communal item reserved signal from the reservation device and passes the communal item reserved signal to the base station. The repeater measures the signal strength of the communal item reserved signal received from the reservation device, and adds the signal strength to the communal item reserved signal before it is passed to the base station. The repeater also adds the zone identifier of the repeater to the communal item reserved signal before it is passed to the base station.
• In accordance with another embodiment, the reservation device has a communal item identifier, and the reservation device is capable of sending the base station a communal item available signal which includes the communal item identifier.
• In accordance with another embodiment, the communal item placement area is divided into a plurality of zones, and the communal item resides in one of the plurality of zones. Each of the plurality of zones has a repeater, each repeater having a zone identifier. Communication between the reservation device and the base station is via the repeater which is located in the same zone as the communal item. The repeater receives the communal item available signal from the reservation device and passes the communal item available signal to the base station. The repeater measures the signal strength of the communal item available signal received from the reservation device, and adds the signal strength to the communal item available signal before it is passed to the base station. The repeater also adds the zone identifier of the repeater to the communal item available signal before it is passed to the base station.
• In accordance with another embodiment, the reservation device has a communal item identifier, and the reservation device is capable of sending the base station a service request signal which includes the communal item identifier.
• In accordance with another embodiment, the communal item placement area is divided into a plurality of zones, and the communal item resides in one of the plurality of zones. Each of the plurality of zones has a repeater, each repeater having a zone identifier. Communication between the reservation device and the base station is via the repeater which is located in the same zone as the communal item. The repeater receives the service request signal from the reservation device and passes the service request signal to the base station. The repeater measures the signal strength of the service request signal received from the reservation device, and adds the signal strength to the service request signal before it is passed to the base station. The repeater also adds the zone identifier of the repeater to the service request signal before it is passed to the base station.
• In accordance with another embodiment, the base station is capable of sending the reservation device an information message.
• In accordance with another embodiment, the reservation device includes a reserve activator. When activated, the reserve activator (1) causes the reservation device to enter the reserved state, (2) causes a communal item reserved signal to be sent from the reservation device to the base station, and (3) enables the timer activator.
• In accordance with another embodiment, the reservation device includes a service state. The reservation device includes a service activator. When activated the service activator causes the reservation device to enter the service state and sends a service request signal from the reservation device to the base station.
• In accordance with another embodiment, the reservation device includes a service activator. When activated the service activator causes the reservation device to enter the service state and causes a service request signal to be sent from the reservation device to the base station. The reservation device includes a system status display which when in the service state displays (1) a service message, and (2) a communal item identifier.
• In accordance with another embodiment, the timer activator includes a motion sensor which senses movement of the communal item when the reservation device is connected thereto. When in the reserved state, if no movement of the communal item is sensed within a time interval, the timer activator causes the timer to start. Once started if the timer runs for the full period of time without the motion sensor sensing movement of the communal item, the reservation device changes from the reserved state to the available state.
• In accordance with another embodiment, the timer activator includes a motion sensor which senses movement of the communal item. When in the reserved state, if no movement of the communal item is sensed within a time interval, the timer activator causes the timer to start. If movement is sensed before the period of time has elapsed, the timer stops and is reset.
• In accordance with another embodiment, the reservation device includes a system status display which when the reservation device is in the reserved state displays a reserved message.
• In accordance with another embodiment, the system status display is also capable of displaying a time generated by the timer.
• In accordance with another embodiment, the reservation device includes a system status display which when the reservation device is in the available state displays an available message, and optionally a communal item identifier.
• In accordance with another embodiment, the reservation device includes a timer reset function which when activated resets the timer.
• Other embodiments, in addition to the embodiments enumerated above, will become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the reservation system, apparatus, and method of use.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• FIG. 1 is a reduced perspective view of a timer for reserving occupancy of a communal item with the timer connected to a communal item;
• FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the timer with a communal item available indicator in an extended position;
• FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the timer with the communal item available indicator in a retracted position;
• FIG. 4 is front elevation view of the timer with the communal item available indicator in the extended position;
• FIG. 5 is a front elevation view of the timer with the communal item available indicator in the retracted position;
• FIG. 6 is a fragmented front elevation view of the timer connected to the communal item;
• FIG. 7 is a front elevation view of the timer with a service request indicator in an extended position;
• FIG. 8 is a top plan view of the timer with a plurality of service request indicators;
• FIG. 9 is a front elevation view of the timer with an enabling transaction feature;
• FIG. 10 is block diagram of the timer;
• FIG. 11 is a front elevation view of a second embodiment of the timer;
• FIG. 12 is a block diagram of the second embodiment timer;
• FIG. 13 is a reduced fragmented front perspective view of a reservation device for reserving occupancy of a communal item with the reservation device connected to a communal item;
• FIG. 14 is a reduced fragmented rear perspective view of the reservation device connected to the communal item;
• FIG. 15 is a reduced perspective view of the reservation device connected to a different style communal item;
• FIG. 16 is front perspective view of the reservation device;
• FIG. 17 is a rear perspective view of the reservation device;
• FIG. 18 is a top plan view of the reservation device;
• FIG. 19 is a front elevation view of the reservation device;
• FIG. 20 is a bottom plan view of the reservation device;
• FIG. 21 is a side elevation view of the reservation device;
• FIG. 22 is an opposite side elevation view of the reservation device;
• FIG. 23 is a reduced exploded perspective view of the reservation device;
• FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a repeater;
• FIG. 25 is a front elevation view of the reservation device in a reserved state;
• FIG. 26 is a front elevation view of the reservation device in an available state;
• FIG. 27 is a front elevation view of the reservation device in a service state;
• FIG. 28 is a block diagram of the reservation device; and,
• FIG. 29 is a block diagram of a reservation system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
• Referring initially toFIG. 1, there is illustrated a reduced perspective view of atimer20 for reserving occupancy of acommunal item500 withtimer20 connected tocommunal item500.FIGS. 2-3 are perspective views oftimer20, andFIGS. 4-5 are front elevation views oftimer20.Timer20 is removably connectable tocommunal item500, and is used to regulate how long a particular user can usecommunal item500. As used herein the term “communal item” embraces any item which is provided for use by multiple users, and which is used by a particular user for a period of time.
• Also referring toFIG. 10,timer20 includes atiming mechanism22 which is settable to run for a period of time, and atimer control24 which is used to set the period of time. In the shown embodiment,timing mechanism22 includes a digital processor, andtimer control24 includes a plurality ofcontrol buttons26 which are disposed on the face oftimer20.Control buttons26 are used to settiming mechanism22 to run for a desired period of time, and can be used to perform other timing-related actions (e.g. on/off, stop, reset, etc.). In one embodiment the setting oftimer mechanism22 is limited to a maximum period of time (e.g. 15 minutes, one hour, etc.). This ensures thatcommunal item500 will not be monopolized and will be available for another user. In the shown embodiment, a remainingtime indicator25 indicates the amount of time remaining before the set time period expires (i.e. remainingtime indicator25 counts down from the remaining time to zero).
• Timer20 further includes a communal itemavailable indicator28 which is positionable to (1) a retracted position (physically within the housing of timer20) during the period of time, and (2) to an upwardly extended position after the period of time has expired. In the shown embodiment, communal itemavailable indicator28 includes a flag on a pole which pivots between the retracted position ofFIG. 3, and in the extended position ofFIGS. 2 and 4. Communal itemavailable indicator28 is biased (such as through spring loading) to the extended position.
• Referring also toFIG. 10, acontrol mechanism30 such as a latch holds communal itemavailable indicator28 in the retracted position during the period of time (i.e. during the timecommunal item500 is reserved). When the set period of time has expired,control mechanism30 causes communal itemavailable indicator28 to move to the extended position. That is,control mechanism30 releases communal itemavailable indicator28 when the period of time has expired so that communal itemavailable indicator28 is urged by spring loading to the extended position.
• Referring also toFIG. 7,timer20 further includes aservice request indicator32 which is positionable to (1) a retracted position, and (2) an extended position. The extended position indicates that a service such as food, drink, or other amenity is requested. In the shown embodimentservice request indicator32 is flag which is manually positioned by the user, and has atab34 which facilitates gripping.
• It may be appreciated that communal itemavailable indicator28 andservice request indicator32 could have shapes or forms other than that of a flag and pole. Also, the communal itemavailable indicator28 andservice request indicator32 could be colored and/or display indicia. And,timer20 could produce an audible sound when time has expired to provide a second indicator (in addition to visible the flag) for notifying when time has expired.
• Timer20 further includes adisplay36 which is capable of displaying a first message during the period of time, and a second message after the period of time has expired. As such,display36 works in conjunction with communal itemavailable indicator28 to convey the occupancy status of the communal item. In the shown embodiment, the first message is a reserved message (RESERVED), and the second message is an available message (AVAILABLE).Display36 can be a LCD display or other similar electronic display. As used herein the term “RESERVED” and “AVAILABLE” are intended to embrace any similar terminology which means thatcommunal item500 is in use or not in use respectively (e.g. occupied, in use, free, open, not in use, etc.).
• In another embodiment,display36 is capable of showing a message in grayscale or different colors, and may flash to produce an enhanced visual impact. Also, display36 could display other messages or phrases not related to the reserved or available status ofcommunal item500.
• In the shown embodiment, the various components oftimer20 are disposed in/on a housing which is both weather and shock resistant. Moreover,timer20 can be manufactured in a variety of sizes, shapes, colors, and designs depending on the intended use. Attachment of the housing tocommunal item500 can be effected by numerous means as is discussed below underFIG. 6.
• In an embodiment, oncetiming mechanism22 has begun to run it is not resettable to a lower remaining time. This feature prevents a person who has not reservedcommunal item500 from resettingtiming mechanism22 in order to expedite the availability of thecommunal item500. For example, if a reserving user briefly steps away from a reservedcommunal item500, another person could not seize that opportunity to lower the remaining time. In another embodiment,timer control24 includes a reset control which interrupts the running oftiming mechanism22 and allows resetting oftiming mechanism22 to a lower remaining time. However, the reset control requires a key to effect resetting to a lower remaining time. For example, this feature is useful if the reserving user decides to abandoncommunal item500 before the set time period has expired. In this case, the time could be reset to zero so that the next user would not have to start occupancy with a low remaining time. In an embodiment the key is a specially designed mechanical key which fits a specially designedreceptacle38 on the face of timer20 (refer toFIGS. 2-5). Alternatively, the key could comprise a code which is entered using control buttons26 (e.g. a specified sequence of button activation which enables the reset feature). The key would typically be in the possession of a person other than the user (such as a pool or gym attendant) who is authorized to perform the resetting, and when requested can do so for anycommunal item500.
• In another embodiment, oncetiming mechanism22 has begun to run it is not resettable to a higher remaining time. This feature prevents a user from resettingtiming mechanism22 in order to prolong occupancy ofcommunal item500. In another embodiment,timer control24 includes a reset control which interrupts the running oftiming mechanism22 and allows resetting oftiming mechanism22 to a higher remaining time, however as in the case of the lower time reset discussed above, the reset requires a key to effect the resetting to a higher remaining time. This feature is useful when there is no one currently waiting to usecommunal item500, and the present user desires to extend the reserved time.
• FIG. 6 is a fragmented front elevation view oftimer20 connected tocommunal item500. The connection can be effected by numerous connection means such as hook and loop fasteners, clips, straps, snap fit fasteners, magnets, ties, adhesives, and the like. In the shown embodiment,timer20 includes twoslots40 each of which receives a connectingstrap42. Alternatively,timer20 can simply be carried and placed on or nearcommunal item500 with positive mounting not required.
• FIG. 7 is a front elevation view oftimer20 withservice request indicator32 in an extended position. In the shown embodiment,service request indicator32 is a flag on a pole which pivots to the extended and retracted positions.Tab34 is used to pivotally rotateservice request indicator32 to the extended (service requested) position.
• FIG. 8 is a top plan view oftimer20 which has a plurality ofservice request indicators32 and associatedtabs34.Service request indicators32 could be different colors to indicate which service is requested (e.g. drinks, food, etc).
• FIG. 9 is a front elevation view of the timer with an enablingtransaction44 feature (also refer toFIG. 10 and the associated discussion). In this embodiment an enabling transaction such as the swipe of a room card is required to operatetimer20. The room card is passed through a card-reader slot46 intimer20.Timer20 reads the room card and, if valid, enables operation oftimer20 throughtimer control24.
• FIG. 10 is block diagram oftimer20. In the shown embodiment,timer20 includestiming mechanism22,timer control24, remainingtime indicator25, communal itemavailable indicator28,control mechanism30,display36, enablingtransaction44, andpower supply50. In the diagram (and inFIG. 12) electrical connections are shown with a solid arrow and mechanical connections or actions are shown with a dashed arrow. Thetiming mechanism22,timer control24, remainingtime indicator25, andpower supply50 features oftimer20 comprise a digital timer which is well known in the art.Timing mechanism22 is a microprocessor which receives a time set input fromtimer control24.Control buttons26 oftimer control24 permit a user to set a desired period of time during whichcommunal item500 will be reserved. The set time period is initially displayed on remainingtime indicator25 which then counts down as the set time period elapses.Timing mechanism22 sends a signal to display36 which causes a message such as RESERVED to appear. When the time period expires,timing mechanism22 sends a signal to controlmechanism30 which in turn causescontrol mechanism30 to activateavailable indicator28.
• In oneembodiment control mechanism30 is a latch which releases spring loaded available indicator28 (a flag) allowing it to pivot to an extended position (refer toFIGS. 1,2, and4) thereby indicating thatcommunal item500 is available for another user. Also,timing mechanism22 sends a signal to display36 which causes a message such as AVAILABLE to appear.
• In the shown embodiment,timer20 also includes an enablingtransaction44 feature. The user is required to perform an enabling transaction before timingmechanism22 will operate. Forexample enabling transaction44 could be a card reader46 (refer toFIG. 9), and before timingmechanism22 can be set, the user's room card (key) must be passed throughcard reader46. Alternatively, enablingtransaction44 could accommodate financial transactions, wherein credit cards, coins, or special tokens would be used to activatetiming mechanism22.
• Power supply50 is typically a battery, but could also be an electrical outlet or a solar power source.
• FIG. 11 is a front elevation view of a second embodiment oftimer20, andFIG. 12 is a block diagram of the second embodiment. In thisembodiment timing mechanism22 andtimer control24 comprise a mechanical timer which is well know in the art (U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,696,899 and 7,484,882 are examples of mechanical timer technology).Timer control24 is a rotary knob which allows the user to set a desired time period (e.g. 90 minutes). Timing mechanism also causesdisplay36 to display a RESERVED message.Timing mechanism22 then mechanically counts down time until the set time period expires. Atexpiration timing mechanism22 sends a signal to controlmechanism30 which in turn causesavailable indicator28 to move to the extended position indicating thatcommunal item500 is available for another user.Timing mechanism22 also causesdisplay36 to display an AVAILABLE message. In thisembodiment enabling transaction44 could accept coins or tokens.
• In another embodiment,timer20 andcommunal item500 are combined to form a reservation system for reserving occupancy ofcommunal item500.
• In another aspect,timer20 reserves occupancy ofcommunal item500 both when the user is actually usingcommunal item500, and when the user has temporarily stepped away fromcommunal item500. That is, occupancy remains reserved regardless of the physical presence of the user.
• In addition to the previously mentioned examples,timer20 can be used in a variety of other situations some of which are outlined below:
• • Beach chairs, umbrellas & tables to prevent “chair hogging”
  • Parks to reserve picnic tables, shelter houses etc
  • Crowded restaurants where there is a wait for a table, this would limit/monitor the amount of time one party occupies a table
  • To regulate the amount of time spent on gym equipment such as cardio machines in a busy or crowded gym when guests are waiting to use an available machine or piece of equipment
  • To regulate time usage of a limited number of computers in a crowded computer lab
  • To regulate the time spent by children playing in or on a toy or amusement park/fair attraction (eg: bounce house)
• In addition to limiting the period of use of a communal item as described above, the present invention can also be used to limit the duration of reservation of a communal item when the communal item is not in use. That is, if the communal item is unoccupied or not in use, but personal articles are disposed in the area of the communal item in order to reserve the communal item, the present invention can be used to limit the practice of reserving the communal item for an indefinite amount of time where the individual is not occupying or utilizing the communal item.
• Referring toFIG. 13 there is illustrated a reduced fragmented front perspective view of areservation device120 for reserving occupancy of acommunal item500 with thereservation device120 connected tocommunal item500.FIG. 14 is a reduced fragmented rear perspective view ofreservation device120 connected tocommunal item500.FIG. 15 is a reduced perspective view ofreservation device120 connected to a different stylecommunal item500.FIGS. 16-23 show various views ofreservation device120.FIG. 28 is a block diagram ofreservation device120, andFIG. 29 is a block diagram of areservation system200 for reserving occupancy ofcommunal item500. In the shown embodiment,communal item500 is a chair which can be occupied by a user. It is noted that inFIGS. 13-14 only the upper portion of the chair is illustrated. As used herein the term “communal item” embraces any item which is provided for use by multiple users, which is used by a particular user for a period of time, and includescommunal items500 in which the user sits or otherwise rests upon the communal item500 (e.g. chairs, lounge chairs, stools, beds, etc.).
• Reservation system200 includes a communal item placement area (such as around a swimming pool, on the deck of a ship, etc.) which is divided into a plurality of zones (Zones1-4 in the embodiment shown inFIG. 29).Communal item500 is disposed in the communal item placement area, and resides in one of the plurality of zones.Reservation system200 further includesreservation device120 which is connectable tocommunal item500. In the shown embodiment ofFIGS. 13 and 14,reservation device120 attaches to a side member which forms the upper portion of the chair.
• Reservation device120 includes an available state in whichcommunal item500 is available for use, and a reserved state in whichcommunal item500 is reserved. Referring toFIG. 28,reservation device120 further includes atimer122 which runs for a period of time (e.g. 60 minutes, or another period of time as defined by facility personnel), and atimer activator124 which startstimer122. In the shown embodiment ofFIG. 28,timer122 is implemented within amicrocontroller126.
• Again referring toFIG. 28,timer activator124 includes a motion sensor (such as an accelerometer) which senses movement ofcommunal item500 whenreservation device120 is connected thereto. The movement ofcommunal item500 is caused by the movement of the user who is occupyingcommunal item500. When in the reserved state, if no movement ofcommunal item500 is sensed within a time interval,timer activator124 causestimer122 to start. In an embodiment the time interval is five minutes, however other time intervals could also be utilized. That is, if the user vacates a reservedcommunal item500 for five minutes, no movement will be sensed, andtimer122 will start a 60 minute countdown. Once started iftimer122 runs for the period of time (i.e. counts down the entire 60 minutes) without the motion sensor sensing movement ofcommunal item500,reservation device120 changes from the reserved state to the available state (also refer toFIGS. 25 and 26 respectively). At this point the user's personal items could be removed fromcommunal item500 by facility personnel (those individuals who manage and operate reservation system200) allowing another user to utilizecommunal item500. In another embodiment, if movement is sensed before the period of time has elapsed,timer122 is reset. That is, if the user returns and reoccupiescommunal item500 before the period of time has elapsed (e.g. is gone for less than 60 minutes), thentimer122 stops counting and is reset. Reset means thattimer122 is again ready to begin counting down should the user again vacatecommunal item500 for longer than the time interval. The motion sensor feature serves to relieve the user of the chore of manuallyre-setting reservation device120 on a continual basis. It is noted thattimer122 can either countdown from the period of time (e.g. countdown from 60 minutes to zero minutes), or alternatively could count up from zero minutes to the time period (e.g. count up from zero minutes to 60 minutes).
• Referring toFIGS. 28 and 29,reservation system200 further includes abase station128 which is controlled and operated by facility personnel. In an embodiment,base station128 comprises a computer system which provides the current status ofreservation system200.Reservation device120 is capable of wirelessly communicating withbase station128. In an embodiment a mesh wireless network is utilized to effect bi-directional wireless communication betweenreservation device120 andbase station128. A mesh wireless network is well known in the art, and is a communication network which includes a plurality of radio frequency nodes which are arranged in a mesh topology. Various status and control signals are sent fromreservation device120 tobase station128, and information messages (such as notices or advertisements) are sent frombase station128 toreservation device120. For example, reserved, available, and service request signals along with a communal item identifier (i.e. a unique identifier for each communal item) are sent fromreservation device120 to a computer atbase station128. This information provides facility personnel with an up-to-date status of eachcommunal item500 in thereservation system200.
• Referring toFIG. 29, each of the plurality of zones has arepeater130. Communication betweenreservation device120 andbase station128 is via therepeater130 which is located in same zone ascommunal item500. For example,communal item500 and associatedreservation device120 located inzone3 communicates withbase station128 via repeater R3 which is located inzone3. This is the primary communication path and is shown in solid lines. It is noted however that thereservation device120 located inzone3 also communicates withbase station128 via therepeaters130 located in other zones (shown in dashed lines). This multiple communication path feature provides communication redundancy and is an inherent characteristic of mesh wireless networks. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 28, a plurality ofcommunal items500 are disposed in the communal item placement area.Reservation system200 includes the previously mentioned mesh wireless network wherein each of therepeaters130 communicate with (1)base station128, (2)other repeaters130, and (3)multiple reservation devices120 which can be connected to multiplecommunal items500.
• Referring toFIGS. 28 and 29, eachreservation device120 has a unique communal item identifier132 (e.g. communal item #001).Reservation device120 is capable of sending base station128 a communal item reserved signal134 which includes thecommunal item identifier132. Further, eachrepeater130 has a unique zone identifier. For example, the repeater inzone3 would have a zone identifier of 3. In a primary mode of operation, the communication betweenreservation device120 andbase station128 is via therepeater130 which is located in the same zone ascommunal item500.Repeater130 receives communal item reserved signal134 fromreservation device120 and passes communal item reserved signal134 tobase station128.Repeater130 measures a signal strength of communal item reserved signal134 received fromreservation device120, and adds the signal strength to communal item reserved signal134 before it is passed tobase station128.Repeater130 also adds the zone identifier of therepeater130 to communal item reserved signal134 before it is passed tobase station128. It is noted however, thatother repeaters130 can also transmit reserved signal134 (or any other signal from reservation device120) tobase station128.Base station128 then compares the signal strength from allrepeaters130, and determines whichrepeater130 is closest to the transmittingreservation device120, and therefore in which zone thecommunal item500 is located. For example inFIG. 29, sincecommunal item500/reservation device120 is located inzone3, due to a shorter transmission distance, the signal strength coming from therepeater130 inzone3 would be higher than that of theother repeaters130. As such,base station128 determines that the transmittingreservation device120 is located inzone3. This zone location information in addition to thecommunal item identifier132 assists facility personnel in physically locating a particularcommunal item500.
• Again referring toFIGS. 28 and 29,reservation device120 is also capable of sending base station128 a communal item available signal136 which includescommunal item identifier132.Repeater130 receives communal item available signal136 fromreservation device120 and passes the communal item available signal136 tobase station128. As with the previously discussed communal item reserved signal134,repeater130 measures the signal strength of the communal item available signal136 received fromreservation device120, and adds the signal strength to the communal item available signal136 before it is passed tobase station128.Repeater130 also adds the zone identifier ofrepeater130 to the communal item available signal136 before it is passed tobase station128.
• Still referring toFIGS. 28 and 29,reservation device120 is also capable of sending base station128 a service request signal138 which includescommunal item identifier132.Repeater130 receives the service request signal138 fromreservation device120 and passes the service request signal138 tobase station128. As with the reserved signal134 and available signal136,repeater130 measures the signal strength of service request signal138 received fromreservation device120, and adds the signal strength to the service request signal138 before it is passed tobase station128.Repeater130 also adds the zone identifier ofrepeater130 to the service request signal138 before it is passed tobase station128.
• Referring toFIG. 28,base station128 is capable of sendingreservation device120 aninformation message140. Theinformation message140 can be an advertisement, a special offer, a public notice, event schedules, or any other information which facility personnel deems appropriate. The messages are displayed on an information messages display located on reservation device120 (refer toFIGS. 25-27).
• Referring toFIGS. 13-22, in the shownembodiment reservation device120 is connected tocommunal item500 by aclamping mechanism142 whereinreservation device120 is removably clamped around a structural member ofcommunal item500.Clamping mechanism142 is designed to accommodate a variety of communal item shapes, sizes, and styles. It may be appreciated however that other methods of connectingreservation device120 tocommunal item500 could also be employed.
• It is noted inFIG. 23, thatreservation device120 includes aremoval key144. This unique tool fits into the housing ofreservation device120, and enables facility personnel to easily remove the electronics components disposed therein.
• FIG. 24 is a perspective view ofrepeater130.Repeater130 is unobtrusively mounted to a structure such as the shownpole600, and relays signals betweenreservation device120 and base station128 (refer toFIG. 29).Repeaters130 are located in each of the zones of the communal item placement area.
• FIG. 25 is a front elevation view ofreservation device120 in the reserved state.Reservation device120 includes asystem status display148 which whenreservation device120 is in the reserved state displays areserved message150.Reservation device120 includes areserve activator146.Reserve activator146 can be a button, a switch, a touchscreen, or the like. When activated by a user (such as by pressing),reserve activator146 starts system operation and specifically (1) causesreservation device120 to enter the reserved state, (2) causes a communal item reserved signal134 (refer toFIG. 28) to be sent fromreservation device120 to base station128 (refer toFIGS. 29), and (3) enablestimer activator124. Enablingtimer activator124 means that oncereserve activator146 is activated,timer activator124 will causetimer122 to start counting if motion is not sensed for the time interval (e.g. five minutes). It is noted that when in the reserved state,system status display148 is also capable of displaying a time generated bytimer122. The time generated bytimer122 is only displayed when thetimer122 has been started and is counting as a result of the user vacatingcommunal item500.Reservation device120 further includes aninformation message display154 for displaying messages received frombase station128. Informationdisplay message display154 can be used whenreservation device120 is in the reserved state, the available state, or service state.
• In an embodiment,system status display148 andinformation message display154 are bistable graphic LCD displays wherein power is only required to change the display image. This greatly reduces the power consumption ofreservation device120. Further, the displays are designed to be seen in bright sunlight.
• FIG. 26 is a front elevation view ofreservation device120 in the available state. When in the available state,system status display148 displays (1) anavailable message156, and (2) communal item identifier132 (e.g. communal item #001).
• FIG. 27 is a front elevation view ofreservation device120 in the service state.Reservation device120 includes aservice activator158. As withreserve activator146, service activator can be a button, a switch, a touchscreen, or the like. When activatedservice activator158 causesreservation device120 to enter the service state and sends a service request signal138 fromreservation device120 to base station128 (refer toFIG. 29). When in the service statesystem status display148 displays (1) aservice message160, and (2) acommunal item identifier132. It is noted that in an embodiment, the service state can only be entered ifreservation device120 has first been placed in the reserved state.
• FIG. 28 is a block diagram ofreservation device120. The functions ofreservation device120 are implemented bymicrocontroller126. It may be appreciated however that other computational elements such as microprocessor could also be utilized.Microcontroller126 can be powered by a battery, or could be solar powered. Atransceiver162 effects communication betweenmicrocontroller126 andbase station128. As previously discussed,reserve activator146 andservice activator158 are inputs provided by a user.Timer activator124 such as a motion sensing accelerometer enablestimer122, which after not detecting motion for a time interval starts running. A displaypower sequencing unit164 drivessystem status display148 andinformation message display154.Reservation device120 further includes atimer reset function166, which when activated resetstimer122 to zero returningreservation device120 to the available state. In an embodimenttimer reset function166 comprises activatingreserved activator146 andservice activator158 in a particular sequence, such as by activating both activators simultaneously. In an embodiment, timer resetfunction166 is only used by facility personnel.
• FIG. 29 is a block diagram ofreservation system200 showing the communal item placement area divided into zones1-4, a plurality ofrepeaters130, a plurality ofcommunal items500 and associatedreservation devices120, andbase station128.Base station128 consists of a computer system and display.Base station128 is located in a convenient location allowing facility personnel to managereservation system200 frombase station128.Base station128 receives information fromreservation device120 viarepeaters130 and is also capable of creating and sending information messages to theindividual reservation devices120.Base station128 is also utilized to configurereservation system200 andreservation device120 mapping upon initial set-up.Base station128 allows facility personnel to monitor available communal items, reserved communal items and the status of service requests.
• In another embodiment, as an alternative to guests reserving a communal item via activating the “reserve” activator onreservation device120, it is possible that guests could reserve a particularcommunal item500 via a web-based platform or mobile application that communicates withindividual reservation devices120 withinreservation system200.
Operational Scenarios:
• A discussion of various operational scenarios forreservation system200 is provided below. In these scenarios, the communal item is a lounge chair:
Scenario #1
• A guest locates a chair, leaves the chair, and returns in less than 60 minutes.
• • 1. A resort guest selects an unoccupied lounge chair with a reservation device which displays the word “AVAILABLE” on the system status display. The guest sets his/her personal items on the chair.
  • 2. The guest presses the “Reserve” button to reserve the chair. The system status display changes to display the word “RESERVED”. The reservation device will then transmit a data packet containing a reserved signal and a communal item identifier. The reserved signal data packet will be received by repeaters located within range of the chair. The repeaters forward the reserved signal data packet to the base station along with a zone identifier of the repeater and the signal strength of the data packet. Base station software will detect which zone the chair is located in based on the repeater which receives the greatest signal strength. Base station software will then add the communal item identifier to the list of reserved chairs in a database.
  • 3. The guest does not sit in the chair, but leaves the chair to go get their morning coffee. After the motion sensor senses no movement of the chair for five minutes, the timer begins counting down from 60 minutes.
  • 4. As the timer counts down, the system status display will display “Time remaining: X:XX” (in hours: minutes). The system status display will refresh and display a new time each minute that the chair remains unoccupied.
  • 5. When the guest returns to the chair and sits in the chair before the timer reaches “0:00”, the motion sensor will detect the movement of the chair and the timer will turn off/re-set. The system status display will continue to display “RESERVED”.
  • 6. Steps #3-#5 can be repeated numerous times throughout the day.
Scenario #2
• A guest locates a chair, leaves the chair, and returns in >60 minutes.
• • 1. A guest selects an unoccupied lounge chair with a reservation device which displays the word “AVAILABLE” on the system status display. The guest sets his/her personal items on the chair.
  • 2. The guest presses the “Reserve” button to reserve the chair. The system status display changes to display the word “RESERVED”. The reservation device will then transmit a data packet containing a reserved signal and a communal item identifier. The reserved signal data packet will be received by repeaters located within range of the chair. The repeaters forward the data packet to the base station along with a zone identifier of the repeater and the signal strength of the reserved signal data packet. Base station software will detect which zone the chair is located in based on the repeater which receives the greatest signal strength. Base station software will then add the communal item identifier to the list of reserved chairs in the database.
  • 3. The guest does not sit in the chair, but leaves the chair to go get their morning coffee. After the motion sensor senses no movement of the chair for five minutes, the timer begins counting down from 60 minutes.
  • 4. As the timer counts down, the system status display will display “Time remaining: X:XX” (in hours: minutes). The system status display will refresh and display a new time each minute that the chair remains unoccupied.
  • 5. The guest does not return within 60 minutes.
  • 6. When the time expires (after 60 minutes); the system status display will change from “RESERVED” to “AVAILABLE”. The reservation device will then transmit a data packet containing an available signal and a communal item identifier. The available signal data packet will be received by repeaters located within range of the chair. The repeaters forward the available signal data packet to the base station along with a zone identifier of the repeater and the signal strength of the data packet. Base station software will detect which zone the chair is located in based on the repeater which receives the greatest signal strength. Base station software will then add the communal item identifier to the list of available chairs in the database.
  • 7. The “AVAILABLE” message both on the system status display and at the base station will prompt facility personnel to remove the personal items left unattended for >60 minutes.
Scenario #3
• A guest utilizing a lounge chair desires service (eg: food or drink)
• • 1. A guest selects an unoccupied lounge chair with a reservation device which displays the word “AVAILABLE” on the system status display. The guest sets his/her personal items on the chair.
  • 2. The guest presses the “Reserve” button to reserve the chair. The system status display changes to display the word “RESERVED”. The guest occupies the chair and begins relaxing.
  • 3. The guest utilizing the chair determines that they would like to place a food or beverage order with a facility staff member. The guest presses the “Service” button to call wait staff to their lounge chair so that an order may be placed.
  • 4. The system status display then displays a large 3 digit number (communal item identifier), and the word “SERVICE”.
  • 5. The reservation device will then transmit a data packet containing a service request signal and a communal item identifier. The service request signal data packet will be received by repeaters located within range of the chair. The repeaters forward the service request signal data packet to the base station along with a zone identifier of the repeater and the signal strength of the data packet. Base station software will detect which zone the chair is located in based on the repeater which receives the greatest signal strength. Base station software will then add the communal item identifier to the list of chairs awaiting service.
  • 6. Wait staff will then locate the chair in the specified zone. When wait staff approaches the chair to take the guest's order, the wait staff will acknowledge the “Service” request and press a button on the reservation device to turn off the service request signal.
Scenario #4
• A guest reserves a lounge chair but does not place personal items on or near the chair.
• • 1. The reservation device is in “RESERVED” state and time is counting down (see scenario #1); however, there are no personal items placed on or near the lounge chair, so it appears unoccupied.
  • 2. Facility personnel use their discretion to determine whether to place the reservation device into the “AVAILABLE” state by “resetting” the device through the “Reset” function. (For example a pop up shower may have just passed and ran all of the pool guests out of the pool area resulting in several chairs in the reserved state which are no longer occupied. Therefore, facility personnel can reset the reservation device to the “AVAILABLE” state.)
Scenario #5
• A guest fails to start the reservation process.
• • 1. A resort guest selects an unoccupied lounge chair with a reservation device which displays “AVAILABLE” on the system status display. The guests sets their personal items on the chair, but does not press the “Reserve” button.
  • 2. If the guest leaves the chair without pressing the “RESERVE” button the chair will remain in the “AVAILABLE” state and facility personnel may remove the guest's personal items from the chair.
• In terms of use, a method for a user to reserve occupancy of a communal item includes (refer toFIGS. 13-29):
• (a) providing a communal item placement area;
• (b) providing acommunal item500 disposed in the communal item placement area;
• (c) providing areservation device120 which is connected tocommunal item500,reservation device120 including;
• • an available state in whichcommunal item500 is available for use;
  • a reserved state in whichcommunal item500 is reserved;
  • atimer122 which runs for a period of time;
  • atimer activator124 which startstimer122;
  • areserve activator146 which when activated (1) causesreservation device120 to enter the reserved state, and (2) causestimer activator124 to be enabled;
  • asystem status display148 which whencommunal item500 is available displays anavailable message156, and whencommunal item500 is reserved displays areserved message150;
  • reservation device120 capable of wirelessly communicating withbase station128;
• (d) the user ensuring thatreservation device120 is in the available state by observing thatsystem status display148 displaysavailable message156;
• (e) the user activatingreserve activator146 thereby causingreservation device120 to enter the reserved state, causingtimer activator124 to be enabled, and causingreserved message150 to appear onsystem status display148; and,
• (f) the user occupyingcommunal item500.
• The method further including:
• providing abase station128,reservation device120 capable of wirelessly communicating withbase station128;
• in (e), activating saidreserve activator146 also causing a communal item reserved signal134 to be sent fromreservation device120 tobase station128.
• The method further including:
• in (c),timer activator124 including a motion sensor which senses movement ofcommunal item500;
• the user vacatingcommunal item500; after vacatingcommunal item500, if no movement ofcommunal item500 is sensed within a time interval,timer activator124 causingtimer122 to start; and,
• timer122 running for the period of time without the motion sensor sensing movement ofcommunal item500, thereby causingreservation device120 to change from the reserved state to the available state.
• The method further including:
• in (c),timer activator124 including a motion sensor which senses movement ofcommunal item500;
• the user vacatingcommunal item500; after vacatingcommunal item500, if no movement ofcommunal item500 is sensed within a time interval,timer activator124 causingtimer122 to start; and,
• the user reoccupyingcommunal item500 before the period of time has elapsed, thereby causing timer to stop and be reset.
• The method further including:
• in (c),reservation device120 including a service state;
• in (c),reservation device120 including aservice activator158; and,
• activatingservice activator158 causingreservation device120 to enter the service state and causing a service request signal138 to be sent fromreservation device120 tobase station128.
• The method further including:
• in (c),reservation device120 including a service state;
• in (c), reservation device including aservice activator158;
• in (c), reservation device including asystem status display148 which when in the service state displays (1) aservice message160, and (2) acommunal item identifier132; and,
• activatingservice activator158.
• The method further including:
• in (c),reservation device120 including atimer reset function166 which when activated resetstimer122; and,
• facility personnel activatingtimer reset function166.
• The embodiments of the reservation system, apparatus, and method of use described herein are exemplary and numerous modifications, combinations, variations, and rearrangements can be readily envisioned to achieve an equivalent result, all of which are intended to be embraced within the scope of the appended claims. Further, nothing in the above-provided discussions and drawings of the reservation system, apparatus, and method of use should be construed as limiting the invention to a particular embodiment or combination of embodiments. The scope of the invention is best defined by the appended claims.

Claims (44)

We claim:

1. A reservation system for reserving occupancy of a communal item, comprising:

a communal item placement area;

a communal item disposed in said communal item placement area;

a reservation device which is connectable to said communal item, said reservation device including;

an available state in which said communal item is available for use;

a reserved state in which said communal item is reserved;

a timer which runs for a period of time; and,

a timer activator which starts said timer.

2. The reservation system according toclaim 1, further including:

a base station, said reservation device capable of wirelessly communicating with said base station.

3. The reservation system according toclaim 2, further including:

said communal item placement area divided into a plurality of zones; and,

said communal item residing in one of said plurality of zones.

4. The reservation system according toclaim 3, further including:

each of said plurality of zones having a repeater; and,

said communication between said reservation device and said base station being via said repeater which is located in said same zone as said communal item.

5. The reservation system according toclaim 4, further including:

a plurality of communal items disposed in said communal item placement area; and,

said reservation system including a mesh wireless network wherein each of said repeaters communicates with (1) said base station, (2) other said repeaters, and (3) multiple reservation devices.

6. The reservation system according toclaim 2, further including:

said reservation device having a communal item identifier; and,

said reservation device capable of sending said base station a communal item reserved signal which includes said communal item identifier.

7. The reservation system according toclaim 6, further including:

said communal item placement area divided into a plurality of zones;

said communal item residing in one of said plurality of zones;

each of said plurality of zones having a repeater, each said repeater having a zone identifier;

said communication between said reservation device and said base station being via said repeater which is located in said same zone as said communal item;

said repeater receiving said communal item reserved signal from said reservation device and passing said communal item reserved signal to said base station;

said repeater measuring a signal strength of said communal item reserved signal received from said reservation device, and adding said signal strength to said communal item reserved signal before it is passed to said base station; and,

said repeater also adding said zone identifier of said repeater to said communal item reserved signal before it is passed to said base station.

8. The reservation system according toclaim 2, further including:

said reservation device having a communal item identifier; and,

said reservation device capable of sending said base station a communal item available signal which includes said communal item identifier.

9. The reservation system according toclaim 8, further including:

said communal item placement area divided into a plurality of zones;

said communal item residing in one of said plurality of zones;

each of said plurality of zones having a repeater, each said repeater having a zone identifier;

said communication between said reservation device and said base station being via said repeater which is located in said same zone as said communal item;

said repeater receiving said communal item available signal from said reservation device and passing said communal item available signal to said base station;

said repeater measuring a signal strength of said communal item available signal received from said reservation device, and adding said signal strength to said communal item available signal before it is passed to said base station; and,

said repeater also adding said zone identifier of said repeater to said communal item available signal before it is passed to said base station.

10. The reservation system according toclaim 2, further including:

said reservation device having a communal item identifier; and,

said reservation device capable of sending said base station a service request signal which includes said communal item identifier.

11. The reservation system according toclaim 10, further including;

said communal item placement area divided into a plurality of zones;

said communal item residing in one of said plurality of zones;

each of said plurality of zones having a repeater, each said repeater having a zone identifier;

said communication between said reservation device and said base station being via said repeater which is located in said same zone as said communal item;

said repeater receiving said service request signal from said reservation device and passing said service request signal to said base station;

said repeater measuring a signal strength of said service request signal received from said reservation device, and adding said signal strength to said service request signal before it is passed to said base station; and,

said repeater also adding said zone identifier of said repeater to said service request signal before it is passed to said base station.

12. The reservation system according toclaim 2, further including:

said base station capable of sending said reservation device an information message.

13. The reservation system according toclaim 2, further including:

said reservation device including a reserve activator; and,

when activated said reserve activator (1) causing said reservation device to enter said reserved state, (2) causing a communal item reserved signal to be sent from said reservation device to said base station, and (3) enabling said timer activator.

14. The reservation system according toclaim 2, further including:

said reservation device including a service state;

said reservation device including a service activator; and,

when activated said service activator causing said reservation device to enter said service state and sending a service request signal from said reservation device to said base station.

15. The reservation system according toclaim 2, further including:

said reservation device including a service activator;

when activated said service activator causing said reservation device to enter said service state and causing a service request signal to be sent from said reservation device to said base station; and

said reservation device including a system status display which when in said service state displays (1) a service message, and (2) a communal item identifier.

16. The reservation system according toclaim 1, further including:

said timer activator including a motion sensor which senses movement of said communal item when said reservation device is connected thereto;

when in said reserved state, if no movement of said communal item is sensed within a time interval, said timer activator causing said timer to start; and,

once started if said timer runs for said period of time without said motion sensor sensing movement of said communal item, said reservation device changes from said reserved state to said available state.

17. The reservation system according toclaim 1, further including:

said timer activator including a motion sensor which senses movement of said communal item when said reservation device is connected thereto;

when in said reserved state, if no movement of said communal item is sensed within a time interval, said timer activator causing said timer to start; and,

if movement is sensed before said period of time has elapsed, said timer stops and is reset.

18. The reservation system according toclaim 1, further including:

said reservation device including a system status display which when said reservation device is in said reserved state displays a reserved message.

19. The reservation system according toclaim 18, further including:

said system status display also capable of displaying a time generated by said timer.

20. The reservation system according toclaim 1, further including:

said reservation device including a system status display which when said reservation device is in said available state displays an available message.

21. The reservation system according toclaim 1, further including:

said reservation device including a timer reset function which when activated resets said timer.

22. Apparatus for reserving occupancy of a communal item which is disposed in a communal item placement area, the apparatus comprising:

a reservation device which is connectable to the communal item, said reservation device including;

an available state in which the communal item is available for use;

a reserved state in which the communal item is reserved;

a timer which runs for a period of time; and,

a timer activator which starts said timer.

23. The apparatus according toclaim 22, the apparatus cooperating with a base station, the apparatus further including:

said reservation device capable of wirelessly communicating with the base station.

24. The apparatus according toclaim 23, further including:

said reservation device having a communal item identifier; and,

said reservation device capable of sending the base station a communal item reserved signal which includes said communal item identifier.

25. The apparatus according toclaim 23, further including:

said reservation device having a communal item identifier; and,

said reservation device capable of sending the base station a communal item available signal which includes said communal item identifier.

26. The apparatus according toclaim 23, further including:

said reservation device having a communal item identifier; and,

said reservation device capable of sending the base station a service request signal which includes said communal item identifier.

27. The apparatus according toclaim 23, further including:

said reservation device capable of receiving an information message from the base station.

28. The apparatus according toclaim 23, further including:

said reservation device including a reserve activator; and,

when activated said reserve activator (1) causing said reservation device to enter said reserved state, (2) causing a communal item reserved signal to be sent from said reservation device to the base station, and (3) enabling said timer activator.

29. The apparatus according toclaim 23, further including:

said reservation device including a service state;

said reservation device including a service activator; and,

when activated said service activator causing said reservation device to enter said service state and sending a service request signal from said reservation device to the base station.

30. The apparatus according toclaim 23, further including:

said reservation device including a service activator;

when activated said service activator causing said reservation device to enter said service state and causing a service request signal to be sent from said reservation device to the base station; and

said reservation device including a system status display which when in said service state displays (1) a service message, and (2) a communal item identifier.

31. The apparatus according toclaim 22, further including:

said timer activator including a motion sensor which senses movement of the communal item when said reservation device is connected thereto;

when in said reserved state, if no movement of the communal item is sensed within a time interval, said timer activator causing said timer to start; and,

once started if said timer runs for said period of time without said motion sensor sensing movement of the communal item, said reservation device changes from said reserved state to said available state.

32. The apparatus according toclaim 22, further including:

said timer activator including a motion sensor which senses movement of the communal item when said reservation device is connected thereto;

when in said reserved state, if no movement of the communal item is sensed within a time interval, said timer activator causing said timer to start; and,

if movement is sensed before said period of time has elapsed, said timer stops and is reset.

33. The apparatus according toclaim 22, further including:

said reservation device including a system status display which when said reservation device is in said reserved state displays a reserved message.

34. The reservation system according toclaim 33, further including:

said system status display also capable of displaying a time generated by said timer.

35. The apparatus according toclaim 22, further including:

said reservation device including a system status display which when said reservation device is in said available state displays an available message.

36. The apparatus according toclaim 22, further including:

said reservation device including a timer reset function which when activated resets said timer.

37. A method for a user to reserve occupancy of a communal item, comprising:

(a) providing a communal item placement area;

(b) providing a communal item disposed in said communal item placement area;

(c) providing a reservation device which is connected to said communal item, said reservation device including;

an available state in which said communal item is available for use;

a reserved state in which said communal item is reserved;

a timer which runs for a period of time;

a timer activator which starts said timer;

a reserve activator which when activated (1) causes said reservation device to enter said reserved state, and (2) causes said timer activator to be enabled;

a system status display which when said communal item is available displays an available message, and when said communal item is reserved displays a reserved message;

(d) the user ensuring that said reservation device is in said available state by observing that said system status display displays said available message;

(e) the user activating said reserve activator thereby causing said reservation device to enter said reserved state, causing said timer activator to be enabled, and causing said reserved message to appear on said system status display; and,

(f) the user occupying said communal item.

38. The method ofclaim 37, further including:

providing a base station, said reservation device capable of wirelessly communicating with said base station;

in (e), activating said reserve activator also causing a communal item reserved signal to be sent from said reservation device to said base station.

39. The method ofclaim 37, further including:

in (c), said timer activator including a motion sensor which senses movement of said communal item;

the user vacating said communal item;

after vacating said communal item, if no movement of said communal item is sensed within a time interval, said timer activator causing said timer to start; and,

said timer running for said period of time without said motion sensor sensing movement of said communal item, thereby causing said reservation device to change from said reserved state to said available state.

40. The method ofclaim 37, further including:

in (c), said timer activator including a motion sensor which senses movement of said communal item;

the user vacating said communal item;

after vacating said communal item, if no movement of said communal item is sensed within a time interval, said timer activator causing said timer to start; and,

the user reoccupying said communal item before said period of time has elapsed, thereby causing said timer to stop and be reset.

41. The method ofclaim 37, further including:

in (c), said reservation device including a service state;

in (c), said reservation device including a service activator; and,

activating said service activator causing said reservation device to enter said service state.

42. The method ofclaim 37, further including:

in (c), said reservation device including a service state;

in (c), said reservation device including a service activator;

in (c), said reservation device including a system status display which when in said service state displays (1) a service message, and (2) a communal item identifier; and,

activating said service activator.

43. The method ofclaim 37, further including:

in (c), said reservation device including a timer reset function which when activated resets said timer; and,

facility personnel activating said timer reset function.

44. A timer for reserving occupancy of a communal item, comprising:

a timing mechanism which is settable to run for a period of time;

a timer control which is used to set said period of time;

a communal item available indicator which is positionable to (1) a retracted position during said period of time, and (2) to an extended position after said period of time has expired;

a control mechanism which, when said period of time has expired, causes said communal item available indicator to move to said extended position; and,

said timer connectable to the communal item.

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